Alexander Owoeye, Justice of the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, has adjourned the trial of Jude Okoye Chigozie, former manager and elder brother of music duo Peter and Paul Okoye, to April 14, 2025.
According to a statement by Dele Oyewale, EFCC Spokesman, Okoye, alongside his company, Northside Music Limited, is facing a seven-count charge of money laundering brought against him by the Lagos Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC stated that one of the charges alleges that Okoye and his company, in 2022, acquired a property at No. 5 Tony Eromosele Street, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos, worth ₦850 million, knowing or reasonably suspecting that the funds were proceeds of unlawful activities.
The EFCC argues that this act contravenes the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
According to the Commission, at his arraignment on February 26, Okoye pleaded not guilty to all charges.
“During Monday’s proceedings, his lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, applied for bail on medical grounds, urging the court to consider his client’s health condition”, the statement reads.
However, the EFCC’s counsel, Fanen Anum, opposed the bail application, arguing that Okoye posed a flight risk and could interfere with witnesses.
“After considering the submissions, Owoeye granted Okoye bail for ₦100 million with two sureties in like sum. One of the sureties must own landed property within the court’s jurisdiction.
“Additionally, Okoye must notify the EFCC before traveling outside the jurisdiction.
“The case was adjourned to April 14, 2025, for further proceedings”, it added.
Meanwhile, the EFCC’s Benin Zonal Directorate has arrested 21 suspected internet fraudsters in various locations across Benin City, Edo State.
According to a statement by the commission, the arrests, which took place on Friday, February 28, were based on credible intelligence about the suspects’ alleged involvement in cybercrime.
Items recovered during the operation include 13 exotic cars, laptops, and mobile phones. The EFCC has stated that the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
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